Congress Pushes for Statehood: Business Community in Jammu and Kashmir Urged to Join Campaign

A Congress delegation led by Raman Bhalla met with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jammu and Kashmir to seek support for the restoration of statehood. Despite the CCI's non-political stance, Congress stressed the impact of the current administration on local businesses and the urgent need for statehood.

A Congress delegation, led by working president and former minister Raman Bhalla, visited the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) headquarters on Saturday. This initiative was part of their outreach campaign for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood. Bhalla urged the business community to support the cause, emphasizing their stake in the region's future.

Following the meeting, CCI President Arun Gupta reiterated the chamber's non-political stance, stating they focus on industry and local issues rather than political campaigns. However, Gupta mentioned that if all political parties united on this issue, the CCI would reveal its position more clearly. The Congress delegation highlighted concerns about governance in Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing traders and industrialists, Bhalla criticized the current administration's approach. He cited its impact on businesses, arguing that the restoration of statehood is vital for economic and democratic revival. Bhalla assured that a responsive state government would address business issues more effectively, once statehood is reinstated.

(With inputs from agencies.)